I'd like to see the Bible placed
Where the Bible used to be.
Upon the top of the teacher's desk
For every child to see.
I'd like to hear the teacher say
As my teacher used to do,
"Before we work or play, dear ones,
I'd like to read to you."
I'd like to see the teacher stand
Before the class again,
And lift with reverent care the Book
That makes God's purpose plain.
And ere the youngsters went to work.
I'd like to see her face light up
At each resplendent word.
And watch the children's souls shine out
At the message they had heard;
I'd like to see that sweet content
Fill that dear room, each nook.
And know that joy had come to each
When teacher read the Book.
Yes, I'd like to hear it read aloud
In the schoolroom of the free.
I want my children taught to know
God's matchless gift of love.
The Book of Books is wisdom's gate
To that bright home above.

-Mrs. Victor J. Henderson-